Reade’s man, Minshull, and Sally were to arrive tomorrow. Until then, Jo would make do herself. She had managed perfectly well in Marlborough. She smiled, remembering how her father hated having a valet. He would love Seacliffe. Was he enjoying his Saturday spent with Mrs. Laverty?
Tying a ribbon around her hair, she hurried to the window at the sound of scattering gravel. Reade rode up the drive. Two hounds, tongues lolling, ran alongside Ash. Jo waved to Reade, then hurried from the room to go down and meet them.
The day had turned blustery and cool. Some hours later, Jo, a shawl wrapped around her shoulders, returned to the house from a stroll along the shore.
Reade was in the library with Mr. Black. The two dogs stretched out over the rug in front of a crackling fire at his feet, while Alistair aloofly viewed them from the window embrasure.
They stood as she entered. “Jo, Black has just returned from Scotland. He brings news of Mrs. Virden.”
Jo’s heart turned over at the mention of the woman’s name she never wanted to hear again. “What news, Mr. Black?” She sat in the armchair Reade had drawn closer to the warmth of the fire.
“It was my intention to bring Mrs. Virden back to London to face justice, my lady, but that has proved impossible.”
“She’s dead, Jo,” Reade said.
“She’s died? Was it an illness?”
Black shook his head. “She was found strangled in her bed. The Scots will deal with the investigation.”
When Black left, keen to continue his journey, Jo sat quietly with Reade on the sofa.
“I never wanted to feel relief that someone has died, but she was evil. It’s an end to the horrible business.”
Reade hugged her. “An ending, Jo. And the beginning of our lives together.”
About the Author
A USA TODAY bestselling author of Regency romances, with over 35 books published, Maggi’s Regency series are International bestsellers. Stay tuned for Maggi’s latest Regency series out next year. Her novels include Victorian mysteries, contemporary romantic suspense and young adult. Maggi holds a BA in English and Master of Arts Degree in Creative Writing. She supports the RSPCA and animals often feature in her books.
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Introducing Miss Joanna Page 20